Garlic Butter Beef Stir-fry

Name: Garlic Butter Beef Stir-fry
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound beef sirloin, thinly sliced; 4 tablespoons butter; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, broccoli, carrots); Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons soy sauce

Highlighted under: Easy Cooking Recipes

I absolutely love making Garlic Butter Beef Stir-fry because it’s a quick and flavorful dish that never fails to impress. The secret lies in the rich garlic-butter sauce that infuses the tender beef with an irresistible taste. I often prepare this stir-fry on busy weeknights, as it comes together in just a few minutes. Pair it with rice or noodles, and you have a satisfying meal in no time. My family can’t get enough of it, and I hope yours will love it just as much!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-20T13:22:28.580Z

When I first stumbled upon this Garlic Butter Beef Stir-fry recipe, I was mesmerized by how the ingredients seemed so simple yet promising. With just a few key ingredients—garlic, butter, and tender beef—I was able to create something truly delicious. I remember the first time I served it; my family couldn't get enough and inhaled every last bite!

One of my best tips for making this dish unforgettable is to slice the beef thinly against the grain. This method not only enhances the tenderness but also allows the flavors of the buttery garlic sauce to cling beautifully to each piece. Trust me; you’ll end up making this stir-fry a regular in your home!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Rich garlic flavor combined with buttery notes
Quick preparation makes it perfect for busy weeknights
Versatile dish that pairs well with rice or noodles

      

Understanding the Ingredients

Each ingredient in this Garlic Butter Beef Stir-fry plays a vital role in creating the dish's signature flavor. The beef sirloin is chosen for its tenderness and ability to absorb the rich garlic butter, providing a juicy bite. When properly sliced against the grain, it remains tender even after cooking. The mixed vegetables not only add a vibrant color but also contribute essential nutrients, balancing the richness of the butter and beef.

Garlic is the heart of the flavor in this dish. By mincing it finely, you release more oils and flavor, which infuses into the butter and coats the beef and vegetables. For an extra kick, consider using roasted garlic for a milder, sweeter taste. If you're looking to make the dish lighter, you can replace part of the butter with olive oil, although this may alter the traditional buttery notes.

Tips for Perfect Stir-frying

Stir-frying is a quick cooking method that demands attention. It's crucial to have all your ingredients prepped and within reach before you start cooking. The heat should be set to medium-high, allowing the butter to melt without burning. Look for the butter to foam slightly before adding the beef, which ensures it's hot enough to create a nice sear. This will help you achieve the characteristic golden edges on the beef that enhance its texture.

When adding the garlic, pay close attention to avoid burning it, which can make it taste bitter. Sauté it until it's just fragrant, usually around 30 seconds, before introducing the vegetables. Stir-frying should be fast and efficient, ensuring the vegetables maintain their crispness while still cooking through. If your vegetables start to soften too quickly, lower the heat slightly to maintain control over cooking times.

Ingredients

For the Stir-fry

1 pound beef sirloin, thinly sliced
4 tablespoons butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, broccoli, carrots)
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons soy sauce

Instructions

Prepare the Beef

Start by slicing the beef sirloin thinly against the grain. This will ensure that the beef remains tender when cooked. Season with salt and pepper, then set aside.

Cook the Beef

In a large skillet or wok, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the sliced beef, cooking until browned, approximately 2-3 minutes. Remove the beef from the pan and set it aside.

Sauté the Garlic and Vegetables

In the same skillet, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter and minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Then, toss in the mixed vegetables and stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until tender-crisp.

Combine and Serve

Return the cooked beef to the skillet, drizzle with soy sauce, and stir to combine everything thoroughly. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes. Serve hot over rice or noodles.

Pro Tips

For added flavor, feel free to sprinkle some sesame seeds or green onions on top just before serving! Also, making sure your skillet is hot enough will give the beef a nice sear.

Serving Suggestions

This Garlic Butter Beef Stir-fry is incredibly versatile and pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Traditionally, it's served over a bed of steamed jasmine rice or alongside noodles, which soak up the savory sauce beautifully. For a lighter option, consider serving it in lettuce wraps for a fresh crunch or over a salad of mixed greens, topped with a tangy sesame dressing to elevate the dish even further.

To add more texture and flavor, sprinkle the finished stir-fry with toasted sesame seeds or chopped green onions. A drizzle of sriracha or chili oil can also add a tantalizing heat, perfect if you enjoy a bit of spice in your meals.

Storage and Reheating

If you find yourself with leftovers, this stir-fry stores well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, use a skillet over medium heat to bring it back to life, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent it from drying out. Stirring occasionally will help maintain even heating throughout the dish, ensuring the flavors are just as delicious as when first made.

For longer storage, you can freeze the stir-fry in a freezer-safe container. It's best to allow the dish to cool completely before freezing to prevent ice crystals from forming. It can be kept frozen for up to three months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating, and you’ll have a quick meal ready to enjoy any day of the week!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different cut of beef?

Absolutely! Cuts like flank steak or tenderloin work beautifully for stir-frying.

→ What vegetables can I add?

You can customize your stir-fry with any vegetables you like, such as snap peas, zucchini, or spinach.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

While stir-fries are best served fresh, you can prep the ingredients the night before and cook them quickly when you're ready to eat.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

You can make it gluten-free by substituting soy sauce with tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce alternative.